Here is an important truth. Our perception of others is based upon our knowledge of them. Our knowledge of them comes from what we know of their reported past or present deeds. We each have a set of personal core values by which we assess that person. When we thoughtfully read the scripture for today we can see this happening. Jesus’ assessment of the Pharisee group is based upon His knowledge of them. He has observed what they say and do. What core value does Jesus hold by which He evaluates them? “Pharisees! ... disregard justice and the love of God...” Jesus values justice and the love of God. When justice is inside a person it will produce just conduct. When the love of God is inside it will produce words and deeds, which reflect that love.

Jesus applies His evaluation of the Pharisees in response to a behavior a Pharisee deems important. Jesus does not wash before the meal! Here is an opportunity to do powerful, penetrating teaching. He goes from the literal “clean hands” issue to the “clean outside” issue. Pharisees appeared clean outside but were unclean inside. What core value does Jesus identify here? Pharisees worked hard to make certain the outside perception led others to believe they were “good people”. Jesus core value of truth impels Him to compare the Pharisee group to tombs. Just as tombs are outside clean but contain a decaying body, Pharisees are outside clean but inside are decayed.

This lesson is not lost on the lawyer group. They understand. One of their group links what Jesus says about the Pharisee group to themselves. Here is another opportunity to do more important teaching. Members of the lawyer group could teach truth to the people, however they fail to do so.

What is there here for us? Are these type people still with us? Yes, for the flawed nature of humans in the past is found today.

Is change possible? Yes, remember the chief of sinners (Paul) described himself as a Pharisee of Pharisees, however he changed and was changed by the power of Jesus. Jesus can help us change too.